Chinese Coin by Mario Lopez

Effect

The Chinese Coin trick in Mario Lopez's "Out of the Box" creates a visual and engaging experience for the audience. Three coins—copper, silver, and a Chinese coin—are placed into a brass aito box. The spectator hears all three coins enter the box. After closing the lid and performing a magical gesture, the magician opens their hand to reveal the Chinese coin has vanished from the box and appeared in their hand. This repeats with the silver and copper coins, one by one, making it seem as though the coins are flying out of the box and into the magician's hand.

Full Details

The trick includes a brass aito box, gaffed coins (a Chinese coin, a Kennedy half dollar, and a brass okito box coin), and an hour-long tutorial. The main effect is largely self-working, relying on the gimmicked box and coins rather than advanced sleight of hand. The tutorial also teaches a second trick performed without the box, involving rapid coin changes and misdirection.

Pocket management and angles are important, but the trick is well-covered by the box or the magician's hand, minimizing the need for difficult sleights. One gaff coin cannot be examined, but the rest of the props are inspectable.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is suitable for magicians who want a visually impressive coin effect without needing advanced coin magic skills. It is accessible for performers who prefer gimmicked props over complex sleight of hand. Those who enjoy storytelling and engaging presentations will appreciate Mario Lopez's performance style.

Difficulty

The trick is not highly difficult. The box and coins do most of the work, making it manageable for beginners or those with limited coin magic experience. The tutorial provides clear instructions, though the pacing is slow. The second trick involves faster moves but remains within reach for most performers.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy describes the trick as "really cool and really visual." He notes that even after knowing the method, Lopez's performance remains captivating due to strong presentation and misdirection. He praises the quality of the props but mentions that the hour-long tutorial could be more concise.

David also highlights that the trick is "not Mario Lopez hard," meaning it doesn’t require the advanced skills often associated with Lopez’s work. He suggests that magicians consider whether they need the props and effects before purchasing, as the $165 price tag may be a factor.

Overall, the Chinese Coin trick in "Out of the Box" offers a visually striking effect with manageable difficulty, making it a strong option for performers looking to expand their coin magic repertoire.